If you’re craving adventure without spending a fortune, a budget camping road trip from San Antonio might be your perfect getaway. South and Central Texas are filled with state parks, riverbanks, forests, and open skies — offering affordable places to sleep under the stars and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking an RV, or glamping on a budget, the San Antonio region has a campsite waiting for you.
This guide is crafted for budget-conscious travelers, nature lovers, and weekend warriors looking to escape the city hustle. From riverside retreats to wild hill country escapes, these camping road trip spots near San Antonio are scenic, serene, and surprisingly affordable.
Why Budget Camping Road Trips Are the Ultimate Adventure
Camping offers something that luxury travel often can’t — freedom. You’re not tied to hotel check-in times, rigid itineraries, or overpriced meals. Instead, you cook over a fire, wake up with the sun, and spend your days exploring trails, rivers, and natural wonders. For San Antonio locals or visitors, the surrounding area delivers some of the best (and most underrated) camping spots in Texas — many of which cost less than a fast-food meal per night.
Best Budget Camping Spots Near San Antonio
1. Guadalupe River State Park
Just 45 minutes from San Antonio, this park offers beautiful riverfront campsites, swimming holes, hiking trails, and wildlife. The tent and RV sites are well-spaced, with clean restrooms and easy access to the river.
Address: 3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: Campsites from $20/night + $7 daily entry fee
Famous For: River access, tubing, and shady camping sites
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book early for weekends — riverside campsites go fast during summer.
2. Blanco State Park
This small but picturesque park sits along the Blanco River and is great for quick weekend escapes. It offers RV and tent sites, with river fishing, swimming, and a relaxed small-town vibe.
Address: 101 Park Rd 23, Blanco, TX 78606
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: Campsites from $20/night + $5 daily entry fee
Famous For: Shallow river access and easy walking trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit the nearby town of Blanco for a historic square and local BBQ.
3. Hill Country State Natural Area
This undeveloped wilderness park is ideal for off-grid campers and hikers. With primitive camping and equestrian trails, it offers solitude and starry skies.
Address: 10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Primitive sites from $10/night + $6 daily entry fee
Famous For: Rugged terrain, remote campsites, and horseback riding
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own water — services are minimal, but views are unmatched.
4. Palmetto State Park
East of San Antonio near Gonzales, this lush park features dwarf palmettos, swampy trails, and a cool oxbow lake. It feels like a jungle and is great for kayaking and unique nature shots.
Address: 78 Park Rd 11 S, Gonzales, TX 78629
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: Campsites from $15/night + $3 daily entry fee
Famous For: Tropical vegetation, paddle boats, and Civilian Conservation Corps structures
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the Mesquite Flats Trail for unique vegetation and solitude.
5. Garner State Park
A classic Texas camping destination along the Frio River. It’s slightly farther from San Antonio but worth the drive for clear water, summer dances, and scenic canyon views.
Address: 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: Sites from $22/night + $8 daily entry fee
Famous For: Tubing, hiking, and iconic Hill Country sunsets
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Camp in spring or fall for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
6. Lost Maples State Natural Area
Best known for its fall foliage, Lost Maples offers peaceful primitive campsites and scenic hikes along the Sabinal River. It’s perfect for tent campers and stargazers.
Address: 37221 FM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$15/night + $6 daily entry fee
Famous For: Fall colors and tranquil canyon landscapes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Reserve well ahead for October–November — it’s one of the most popular times to visit.
7. South Llano River State Park
A haven for birdwatchers and paddlers, this park near Junction offers budget-friendly camping, dark skies, and access to the beautiful Llano River.
Address: 1927 Park Rd 73, Junction, TX 76849
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $20/night + $5 daily entry fee
Famous For: Bird blinds, riverside trails, and remote peace
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try a morning hike on the Fawn Trail for soft light and wildlife sightings.
Packing Tips for Budget Camping Trips
- Lightweight tent with rainfly
- Sleeping bag rated for local temps
- Camping stove or portable grill
- Water jugs or hydration packs
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Firestarter, matches, and headlamp
- First-aid kit and trail snacks
- Binoculars for wildlife watching
- Maps or GPS (some parks have no signal)
- Trash bags — always pack out what you pack in
Food & Drink Stops Near the Camping Spots
1. Old 300 BBQ – Blanco, TX
A beloved local BBQ joint with picnic tables and generous portions. Great post-camping meal.
Address: 318 4th St, Blanco, TX 78606
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Smoked brisket and peach cobbler
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order the 2-meat plate and eat outdoors for that post-hike reward.
2. Neal’s Dining Room – Concan, TX
A family-owned diner near Garner State Park serving comfort food and Texas favorites.
Address: 20970 TX-127, Concan, TX 78838
Hours: Thurs–Sun, 8 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Chicken-fried steak and river views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Sit on the patio after tubing or hiking for a scenic meal.
3. Hermann Sons Steakhouse – Hondo, TX
Old-school steakhouse near Hill Country State Natural Area — affordable and filling.
Address: 577 US-90, Hondo, TX 78861
Hours: Tues–Sat, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Ribeye steaks and retro ambiance
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask about weekday lunch specials — great value for road trippers.
Local Tips for Budget Campers
- Always book campsites online in advance during spring and fall
- Arrive early to claim shaded spots if campsites are first-come
- Use public-use areas for free firewood collection where allowed
- Bring cash — some small parks or stores don’t accept cards
- Avoid summer afternoons for tent camping — it gets hot
- Download maps and trail guides before heading out
- Visit local visitor centers for free brochures and nature guides
- Join ranger programs — many parks offer free night hikes or talks
Final Conclusion
Camping near San Antonio doesn’t have to cost a lot to offer a big adventure. With so many nearby state parks and scenic preserves, you can plan an unforgettable trip on a shoestring budget. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, spotting wildlife, or falling asleep to river sounds, these affordable camping getaways are perfect for unwinding, reconnecting, and exploring the natural side of Texas.
So pack your gear, hit the road, and let the Hill Country welcome you to your next outdoor escape — no luxury required, just a love for the wild.
